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1
In a small bowl, soak the dried porcini in the hot water until softened, about 30 minutes.
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2
Drain and finely chop the mushrooms, discarding any tough bits.
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3
Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet.
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4
Add the leeks and a pinch each of salt and pepper and cook over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
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5
Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes longer.
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6
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the assorted mushrooms and chopped porcini and cook over high heat, stirring frequently, until the mushrooms have released their liquid.
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7
Pour in the wine and cook, stirring frequently, until the liquid has evaporated and the mushrooms begin to brown, about 10 minutes.
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8
Season the mushrooms with salt and pepper.
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9
Preheat the oven to 375.
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10
Lightly butter a 3-quart baking dish.
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11
Spread the diced bread in the baking dish and spoon the mushrooms on top.
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12
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs with the cream, 1 cup of the Parmesan cheese, the thyme and a pinch each of salt and pepper.
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13
Pour the custard over the mushrooms.
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14
Press a sheet of plastic wrap directly on the custard and let the bread pudding soak for 30 minutes.
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15
Discard the plastic wrap.
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16
Sprinkle the the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese and the parsley on top of the pudding.
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17
Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is brown.
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18
Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.